Celiac Disease Clinic

The Celiac Disease Clinic offers a comprehensive next step for patients who have received a possible diagnosis of celiac disease. We can confirm if you have celiac disease and provide ongoing support for managing this condition.

Celiac Clinic Providers

Celiac Disease Patient Education

What is Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder involving severe sensitivity to gluten, a protein found naturally in wheat, rye and barley. If someone with celiac disease eats food that contains gluten, their immune system reacts by attacking the lining of the small intestine. Celiac disease is sometimes called by other names: coeliac disease, celiac sprue, non-tropical sprue, and gluten sensitive enteropathy.

Is Celiac Disease Harmful?

Over time, damage to the small intestine leads to an inability to absorb nutrients. This can lead to anemia, nervous system disorders, thin bones, vitamin deficiencies and other serious conditions.

Am I at Risk For Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease is hereditary. People with a parent, child or sibling with celiac disease have a 10 percent chance of developing celiac disease themselves. Some people with celiac disease have other autoimmune diseases.

What Are the Symptoms of Celiac Disease?

Some people with celiac disease feel no symptoms. Others may experience:

Abdominal Pain

Anemia

Bone or joint pain

Depression or anxiety

Diarrhea

Fatigue

Fertility problems

Itchy rashes

Migraines

Mouth sores

Numb hands or feet

Osteoporosis

Weight Loss

In children, additional symptoms can include:

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Behavior problems

Delayed growth and puberty

Poor dental enamel

Reduced height

How Is Celiac Disease Diagnosed and Treated?

Advanced diagnosis of celiac disease involves a biopsy of the lining of the small intestine. This can confirm the initial diagnosis from a blood test. This biopsy will be performed while the patient is still eating gluten.

Patients will also be screened for vitamin and mineral deficiencies common to people with celiac disease.

Because the most important treatment for celiac disease is avoiding foods, medications and other products containing gluten, our dietitians help patients create balanced, gluten-free eating plans. In rare cases, additional treatment such as medication may be required.